COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

Subject: Kitchens in Residential Units

Issue: The definition of a secondary housing unit or secondary residential unit does not establish criteria for defining "complete, independent living facilities" except stating it has provisions for living, sleeping, cooking, and sanitation. The definition for "dwelling" prohibits more than one kitchen, room, or other area with cooking facilities. However, there is no definition or criteria for identifying a kitchen or area with cooking facilities

Reference: Section 18.58.230 (Secondary Residential Unit); Section 18.220.020 (Definitions for "Dwelling" and "Secondary Housing Unit")

Policy/Procedure: This policy will identify those types of facilities, equipment, and appliances which are usually associated with kitchens that may be allowed in a dwelling in addition to the kitchen or may be allowed in a detached living area. Areas (outside the approved kitchen) with kitchen facilities, equipment, and appliances above and beyond that allowed by this policy will be considered a kitchen or area with cooking facilities and shall be prohibited.

Kitchen facilities, equipment, and appliances permitted in areas outside the kitchen or in a detached living:

a. A single one-well sink with a maximum surface area of two square feet; b. (no limit on size); c. Microwave (no limit on size); d. Counter space in proximity of the one-well sink not exceeding six lineal feet; e. Cabinet space in proximity of the one-well sink not exceeding eight cubic feet.

Areas with other kitchen facilities and equipment, including but not limited to cooking stove with or without oven, hot plates, convection oven, garbage disposal, and kitchen cabinets and counters (cabinets and counters in close proximity to the one-well sink) above the limits noted above shall be considered a kitchen and shall be prohibited in a dwelling unless the area is approved as a secondary residential unit.

Effective Date: March 25, 2002

Approved by: ______Tony Lashbrook, Director 28